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Kettlebell Kindergarten

I taught my first ever kettlebells class today. I’m not looking to get certified any time soon. Our instructor is going on vacation and she’d like someone to teach while she’s gone. This was my practice, a sort of dry run. I wanted her to see what I did and offer any constructive criticism. I was excited about it but also a little nervous. Will I do a good job? Did I create a workout that’s too hard for even me to complete? That’s the biggest one. I wrote it all down and tried it at home, modifying as I went along. I had one section that’s kind intense. I couldn’t finish it all. I figured I’d wing it and push myself. I axed the 40 seconds of pushups. What was I thinking?! I hate pushups. Working at at home with only your cats for company is not particularly motivating.

I’m definitely not at the same level of cardio fitness I had before I stopped running. I did walk regularly, and stretch a ton. I figured out I have a backlog of stretching as far back as 1982. I started playing organized sports (volleyball) that year. Don’t think I’ve stretched much since then.

And, I reminded myself to eat less breakfast. Lately, it’s been trying to reappear during the House of Pain workouts put on by our sensei.

The class went well, overall. We espouse the Russian kettlebell technique, for those who wonder about such things. I did not get queasy. The regulars and some newer people were teachable, if rather quiet. The usual moaning and groaning didn’t surface. Our regular instructor stood in the front row. I think she liked having someone else be in charge for a change. She wanted to get a good workout. I did circuits, 40 seconds on, 20 seconds off, with about a minute rest between circuits. I felt a little like I was test-driving a car. I wanted to see what this baby (the class) could do! I typed it all up because my handwriting, as you know, could pass for chicken scratch. The 40 seconds of jump squats was a little much, but we only did it once. Hopefully nobody hates me forever for that.

Our teacher was pleased. She said I need to be louder in calling out exercises and general instruction, but she seemed to like it. She’s gone to Hawaii the beginning of next month and I will take her morning classes. It encouraged me to be entrusted with helping people on their fitness journey, even for a short span. I know I have a lot to learn. I did enjoy making up a brand new workout. I’ll have to research a little and figure out something new to try while she’s enjoying the beautiful Hawaiian scenery. It’s going to be fun. Look out!